New driving test goes nationwide

A NEW driving test that aims to make getting a licence quicker and cheaper has come into force across France this morning.

The simpler procedure was introduced in four test regions in March and has now been extended nationwide.

About 100 theory test questions have been reworded, 57 ambigious or trick questions deleted and 150 new ones introduced - with a particular focus on looking out for cyclists and pedestrians.

Extra points are given during the practical test for courteous or environmentally conscious driving.

The new test also comes with a five-minute "autonomous driving" section where the candidate is given a destination to head towards but no precise commands from the examiner on which directions to turn.

Prime Minister François Fillon said the aim of the new test was "to make getting the procedure of getting a driving licence faster, cheaper and safer."

Driving instructors' body L'Union Nationale des Indépendants de la Conduite has welcomed the changes, but says more work needs to be done to reduce the waiting time for the exam - currently about five months.